Now that I have been writing this blog for six months, I wanted to take a moment and talk about the process.
The blog came into being because the Froedtert Hospital Marketing Department asked if I would take this on. I have a pathologic need to be liked so, of course, I agreed. I had already written monthly columns for the MCW Cancer Center News based on exploring what I felt were the attributes of a “good” physician. I intended to post an entry every four to five days; so far, so good.
Basically, I write because I see things that make me go, “Huh?” Writing allows me to process what I see, both the exhilarating and the devastating. I have kept a journal off-and-on since college (pretty much continuously for the past 10 years), accumulating stories and experiences; the blog allows me to re-think some of those moments.
I was a bit surprised to find out how much time would be involved. The shortest essays sometimes require the most effort; they are the most rewarding when finished. Annie Dillard once quoted Thorton Wilder describing the process of writing: one line drops from the ceiling, “and you tap in the others around it with a jeweler’s hammer.” That really rings true for me and keeps me coming back for more.
By the way, I appreciate readers’ reactions. The stuff I write about is not controversial, but I really enjoy hearing your insights about the topics. Feel free to hit the “Feedback” link below. Most people, however, choose to call, e-mail, or talk in the hall. I don’t need an audience, but, truth be told, it’s nice to know you are out there.
So, to recognize the six-month anniversary, we are re-christening this blog as “Reflections in a Head Mirror.” The head mirror, an almost archaic medical device, is the symbol of the doctor in cartoons everywhere. As an otolaryngologist, it is still one of my most cherished instruments.
Thanks for reading! Thanks especially to Christopher Sadler and Tamara Kroll who have made this all possible. If you have topics you think I should explore, please let me know.
The following is feedback received for this blog:
Thanks for writing. I really enjoy your essays.
- rlbates
http://rlbatesmd.blogspot.com/
you have answered one of my most enduring puzzlements. for the last thirty years, i have been asking my colleagues, what's that round mirror thing you guys wear (or used to wear). it's such a ubiquitous symbol that we used it on the cd cover for my band, dr. linda and the ultrasounds. even the great and wise dr. linda didn't know what it was! now i do, and i will lord it over everyone i know!!!
-dick
